The May 2026 Detroiter Magazine features three unique tribute covers drawn by the Chamber’s Creative Manager, Erin Poe. Pictured left to right: the late J. Michael Bernard, Sen. Gary Peters, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Ahead of the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, the Detroit Regional Chamber released its latest Detroiter Magazine, “A Quest for Common Ground,” highlighting this year’s Conference theme and Michigan’s role as a purple state.

Explore pieces from the special edition below and learn how Michigan’s leaders can rise above divisiveness and champion pragmatic solutions to Michiganders’ demand for meaningful action and tangible results.

Pictured: Megan Spanitz

Megan Spanitz, the Chamber’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, details how the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference is the perfect stage to highlight Michigan’s need for its leaders to work together to solve the state’s economic challenges and opportunities.

“When you see photos of these gatherings, I invite you to look beyond the obvious. They serve as a reminder that relationships drive results, and Michigan needs its leaders to know and be able to work with each other to solve our problems – if we are to succeed in our “Quest for Common Ground,” says Spanitz.

Pictured left to right: Sandy K. Baruah, Mike Duggan

“People are tired of the system. They’re tired of fighting. And they’re ready for someone who’s focused on getting things done,” says Independent Gubernatorial Candidate Duggan.

Learn more about the work Duggan’s campaign is doing to understand the issues Michiganders are facing and the importance of finding common ground to enhance Michigan’s communities.

Pictured: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

When Gov. Gretchen Whitmer took her oath of office, it was to serve all the people of Michigan, including Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and those who have yet to visit the ballot box.

“Let’s be an example of civility, compassion, and people who work together to get stuff done,” says Whitmer.

Whitmer reflects as she prepares to take the Mackinac Stage for the final time as Governor.

Pictured: Bob Riney

This year’s Mackinac Policy Conference Chair is Bob Riney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Henry Ford Health.

In a Q&A, Riney shares his big goals for the Conference, what the rest of the country can learn from Michigan as a purple state, and advice for those headed up to the Island next week.

“We have an opportunity to show that you can have a good fight,  you can have a good debate on topics, but you emerge with an approach that treats voters as adults,” says Riney.

Pictured: Mayor Mary Sheffield

At this year’s Conference, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield will take the Mackinac Stage for the first time.

In a Q&A, Sheffield shares the importance of equity, the lessons Michigan can take from Detroit, and more.

“My grandfather and my father, known for civil rights and social justice, knew how to work with everyone, no matter what their background was, their race, or their party,” says Sheffield.

Pictured left to right: Rick Snyder, Doug Ross

In a time where Michigan is working to strengthen its economy and grow its talent pipeline, Rick Snyder, Michigan’s 48th Governor, says the 21st Century Learning in Michigan Innovation District legislation  is the key to this success.

“We have students ready to fly. Let’s let them fly, say Snyder and Ross.

Hear statewide and national leaders speak at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, where they will reflect on why Michigan must find common ground. For those unable to attend the Conference, most programming will be livestreamed, beginning Tuesday, May 26. View the Conference agenda.

Tune in live on Sunday, May 24, at 8 a.m. for a 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference preview on “‘JR Sunday,” hosted by Mark Hollis and Terry Rhadigan, the Chamber’s Executive Advisor. Hear the voices shaping the Conference.

Hear from:

• Dennis W. Archer Jr., Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sixteen42 Ventures
• Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer, Detroit Regional Chamber
• Mike Duggan, Independent Gubernatorial Candidate
• Tricia A. Keith, President and Chief Executive Officer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
• Devin Scillian, Journalist and Author
• Megan Spanitz, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, Detroit Regional Chamber